Jansen, a former gang member with over ten juvenile arrests for fighting, knew all the neighborhood thugs—violent individuals willing to do anything. He considered manipulating a young girl easy.

Melody, witnessing Jansen's dismissive attitude toward Tiffany, warned him, "She's a skilled fighter. Be careful."

Jansen chuckled, "Don't worry. Even if she's capable, she can't beat all my buddies. Melody, I still need your help. Can you lure them to the bar on Creek Lane? My buddies will ambush her."

"No problem," Melody readily agreed.

Because Tiffany was wary of her, Melody planned to use others to lure her.

On Monday, Kenneth's absence from school worsened Melody's premonition, especially since he hadn't requested leave and she couldn't reach him. The moving van driver had mentioned Romeo grounding Kenneth the day before; things clearly hadn't gone well, and Kenneth might even be incarcerated.

The Harper family's longstanding prominent status made their rejection of Melody understandable, especially considering Tiffany's superior background. Melody often envied Tiffany's privileged upbringing.

Despite Kenneth's absence, classes continued. During the last afternoon class, Melody mysteriously told her deskmate, Jade, "I need to tell you something."

"What is it?" Jade asked, teasingly, "Good news?"

Melody confided softly, "Kenneth's celebrating my birthday tonight at a bar on Creek Lane. I want to invite some classmates. I don't know many people; can you help invite Tiffany and others? The more, the merrier."

Jade hesitated, aware of the awkward history between Tiffany and Kenneth, even after their annulment. She politely suggested Melody invite Tiffany herself.

Melody sneered inwardly, revealing her true intentions. "Just do it. Ged will be there, too."

Jade's face flushed, betraying her crush on Ged. Melody pressed, "Just help me, Jade. You're the best."

Jade reluctantly agreed. Before leaving, Melody insisted, "Tell them it's just for fun. Don't mention me."

"Why?" Jade asked.

"I'm afraid they won't like me," Melody said pleadingly.

Jade complied. The invitations went surprisingly well, thanks to Jade's popularity. Tiffany initially resisted but eventually succumbed to Jade's persistent requests.

After securing the invitations, Jade excitedly told Melody, "Don't worry. Your birthday party will be lively!"

Melody smiled, a dark glint in her eyes.

At 9 p.m., Jansen and over a dozen buddies gathered outside the Creek Lane bar. He boasted, "Don't worry, guys. If you help me, I won't forget you when I'm rich."

His friends nodded. One asked, "What do we do with her? Beat her up? Take nude photos?"

A blonde added, "She's rich. I've never had a rich woman" His intentions were clear.

Jansen laughed, "Do whatever you want!" He reminded them, "Take photos as evidence. Don't get caught, understand?"

The thugs readily agreed, boasting of their experience.

At 9:30 p.m., Tiffany, Zoe, and Ged arrived. They were surprised by the bar's location in a rough part of Lovell City, far from the usual haunts of the wealthy. Ged voiced his disapproval.

Tiffany, however, remained unfazed, suggesting they proceed. She suspected Jade wasn't behind the invitation.

As Tiffany started walking, a black luxury car sped toward her. Zoe screamed a warning, but it was too late. Tiffany remained motionless as the car screeched to a halt inches away. Inside, Alexia hit her head.

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